Each season brings its own unique challenges and rewards, ensuring that Puerto Vallarta remains a premier destination for anglers year-round.
From the thrill of Fly Fishing in Puerto Vallarta to waiting patiently for the mighty Marlin, Puerto Vallarta is a fisherman’s paradise, offering year-round opportunities to reel in the big one.
Popular Fish Species In Puerto Vallarta Waters
Puerto Vallarta, a gem on Mexico’s Pacific coastline, is renowned not just for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for its incredible fishing opportunities. The waters surrounding this tropical paradise are teeming with a diverse array of fish species that attract anglers from around the globe.
In addition to incredible fishing, Puerto Vallarta offers visitors stunning beaches, a vibrant nightlife scene, and various other activities.
Here, you can enjoy breathtaking natural surroundings, see the abundant wildlife, enjoy deep-sea fishing and catch various fish species.
One of the most sought-after catches in Puerto Vallarta is the majestic sailfish, known for its extraordinary speed and acrobatic displays. This region’s warm waters provide an ideal habitat for these spectacular creatures, especially between November and May when they are most abundant.
Known for their distinctive sail-like dorsal fin and impressive speed, sailfish offer thrilling catch-and-release opportunities.
Tuna, sea bass, dorado, and grouper are abundant in these waters; sailfish are predominant from May to November, and striped marlin between December and April.
Another prized catch is the yellowfin tuna, celebrated for its fighting spirit and delectable taste. These formidable fish can be found year-round but peak during the Fall months. Anglers often relish the challenge of reeling in these powerful swimmers while enjoying breathtaking views of Banderas Bay.
Tuna: Yellowfin Tuna is a prized catch for sport fishing enthusiasts.
It is possible to fish for grouper any time of the year, but fish are the most active during the Fall months.
The nutrient-rich waters of Banderas Bay attract both blue and black marlin, offering anglers the chance to reel in these.
Mahi-mahi, also known as dorado or dolphinfish, add a splash of color to any fishing adventure with their vibrant hues and playful nature. These fast-growing fish are plentiful from May through December. Some of the best prices in Mexico for deep sea fishing adventures
Dorado Delight: Dorado, also known as mahi-mahi or dolphinfish, is in full swing during October.
This is a fantastic way to catch and land some fast-feeding fish.
Puerto Vallarta’s waters also host marlin species such as blue and black marlin, offering thrilling big-game fishing experiences that lure enthusiasts eager to test their mettle against these ocean giants.
Puerto Vallarta is also a great fishing destination for huge big game fish such as blue marlin, black marlin, sailfish, wahoo, and seasonally striped marlin.
Top Fishing Spots In Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, a vibrant coastal city on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities. Anglers from around the globe are drawn to its diverse marine ecosystems and abundant fish populations. One of the prime locations for fishing in Puerto Vallarta is Banderas Bay, one of the largest and deepest bays in the world. Its sheltered waters provide an ideal environment for a variety of species including marlin, sailfish, dorado, and yellowfin tuna.
Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation destination located on the Pacific coast of Mexico.
The richness of marine life in this area allows both novice and experienced anglers the thrill of catching a wide variety of fish.
Puerto Vallarta is a fisherman’s haven located on Banderas Bay, Mexico’s largest and most beautiful bay.
The warm waters attract a variety of game fish, such as dorado, yellowfin tuna, and marlin.
The bay’s calm conditions make it accessible year-round, offering both novice and seasoned fishermen a chance to land impressive catches.
And the water is calm nearly all year round making it great for those who are a novice to snorkeling.
Another notable spot is El Banco, an offshore fishing ground situated about 50 miles from Puerto Vallarta. Known for its underwater mountains that create nutrient-rich upwellings, El Banco attracts large game fish like black and blue marlin as well as giant yellowfin tuna. Similarly significant is Corbeteña Rock, located roughly 35 miles offshore. This area is famed for its pelagic species and offers thrilling deep-sea fishing experiences.
Around 50 miles offshore from the Marina Vallarta, you can spot El Banco.
Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places in the world to catch huge Yellowfin Tuna, as well as Blue, Black, and Striped Marlin (not to mention the Sailfish).
La Corbetena is around 36 miles offshore from the Marina Vallarta.
Mexico offers an anglers paradise for deep sea fishing enthusiasts.
Closer to shore, the Ameca River mouth provides excellent opportunities for snook and roosterfish. The combination of these diverse habitats ensures that Puerto Vallarta remains a premier destination for anglers seeking varied and exciting fishing adventures throughout the year.
Closer to shore we are still catching some nice roosters, pompano, and jacks.
Puerto Vallarta has been a top fishing destination for years because of the variety of fish you can catch and all the different spots you can go.
Charter companies in Puerto Vallarta offer a range of options tailored to different preferences and budgets. Whether it’s a half-day trip close to shore or an extended deep-sea adventure, there’s something for everyone. The captains and crew members are often lifelong residents with a deep connection to the sea, ensuring that each outing is not just about catching fish but also about immersing oneself in the maritime culture of this picturesque region.
Moreover, many charters emphasize sustainable fishing practices to preserve marine life for future generations. Their commitment to conservation is evident through catch-and-release policies for certain species and adherence to local regulations. Thus, engaging with local fishing charters not only promises an exciting adventure but also supports responsible tourism practices in Puerto Vallarta.
Tips For A Successful Fishing Trip
Embarking on a fishing trip in Puerto Vallarta promises not only the thrill of the catch but also an immersion into the vibrant marine biodiversity of Mexico’s Pacific coast. To ensure your expedition is both fruitful and enjoyable, consider several essential tips. First, understanding local weather patterns is crucial; the tropical climate can be unpredictable, and being well-prepared ensures safety and comfort.
Equally important is familiarizing yourself with peak fishing seasons for specific species such as marlin, sailfish, or dorado, as timing can significantly impact your success.
Hiring a knowledgeable local guide can make all the difference. These experts possess intimate knowledge of prime fishing spots and effective techniques suited to local waters. Additionally, they can provide valuable insights into sustainable fishing practices that help preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.
Equipping yourself with appropriate gear tailored to your targeted species enhances your chances of landing a memorable catch. Whether you’re deep-sea fishing or casting closer to shore, having high-quality rods, reels, and bait can make a significant difference.
Lastly, patience and adaptability are key virtues on any fishing trip. Conditions at sea can change rapidly; remaining flexible allows you to seize unexpected opportunities while savoring the serene beauty that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
Recent Fishing Reports ,Trends and Pricing
Puerto Vallarta, renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, has been experiencing an exceptional fishing season this year. Anglers have reported a notable increase in the number of trophy-sized catches, particularly in species such as marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna. The warm sea temperatures and favorable currents have created ideal conditions for these pelagic predators to thrive closer to shore.
In recent weeks, deep-sea fishing charters have seen an uptick in successful outings, with many boats returning to the marina boasting impressive hauls. Local captains attribute this surge to a combination of factors including optimal weather patterns and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices which have contributed to healthier fish populations.
The bay area is teeming with activity as well. Roosterfish and dorado are abundant near the coastal reefs, providing thrilling action for inshore fishermen. Additionally, bottom fishing enthusiasts are delighted by the consistent presence of snapper and grouper around rocky structures.
As Puerto Vallarta continues to draw anglers from around the globe, it’s clear that this destination remains a premier location for both seasoned sportfishermen and novices alike. The current trends suggest that these bountiful conditions will persist into the coming months, offering excitement for all who venture out onto these vibrant waters. The waters will be cooling off making for near-perfect conditions here in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Tight lines
Capt. Pete and crews
see what’s happening in Nuevo Vallarta fishing report
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Puerto Vallarta fishing Adventures for the month of October 2024
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Puerto Vallarta fishing Adventures for September 2024
Puerto Vallarta is more than just a sun-soaked beach destination. It’s a world-renowned angler’s paradise, where the warm waters teem with a diverse array of marine life. With its prime location on Mexico’s Gold Coast, this coastal city is a hotspot for both inshore and offshore fishing adventures. Let’s take a look and what’s going on in September 2024 this month. The Bay: For a more relaxed yet rewarding experience, the bay offers excellent fishing opportunities. Half-day trips on a 28-foot super panga can yield a variety of catches, from snappers and grouper to amberjack and mahi-mahi. It’s a perfect choice for families or those new to fishing. This trip can be customized to include snorkeling,hidden beaches and sightseeing on request. Perfect for a family of four. Many people ask what are the prices for fishing in Puerto Vallarta? El Morro: If you’re seeking the thrill of deep-sea fishing, El Morro is your destination. This 8-hour adventure takes you to the open waters where you can encounter marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna. It’s a great option for experienced anglers looking for a challenge. The month of September will see some big marlin out at this fishing destination along with some of the larger dorados. Take plenty of live bait on these fishing trips. Corbetena: Known for its abundance of trophy fish, Corbetena is a must-visit for serious anglers. This offshore trip offers the chance to land larger species like marlin and tuna. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many fishermen. One of our favorite fishing spot around Puerto Vallarta. One of the tricks we use here is fishing live 10-pound chorros. Either up top on a long line or short downrigger. This type of fishing produces large tuna,marlin, and big snappers. Imagine a snapper eating a 10-pound bait. El Banco: Considered one of the best fishing spots in the world, El Banco is a hotspot for trophy fish. This 12-14 -hour trip is ideal for those seeking the ultimate fishing experience. It’s a bucket list destination for many anglers. From the fishing spot El Banco you can see the Maria Islands where the old prison used to be. There were over three thousand inmates out there up to a couple of years ago. Amlo the new Mexican President took everyone off the islands and will turn into a resort of the next few years. Beyond the Basics: Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of fishing experiences to suit all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’ll find the perfect fishing adventure. There’s something for everyone, from bottom fishing for grouper and snapper to trolling for billfish. For any questions please check here Expert Guidance: With over 100 professional fishing guides, Captains and Marina biologists we have you covered here in Puerto Vallarta fishing charters. Puerto Vallarta fishing with Capt. Pete ensures that you have the best possible experience on the water. Our knowledgeable guides will help you choose the right trip based on your preferences and skill level. So, what are you waiting for? Come and discover the fishing paradise of Puerto Vallarta. With its diverse marine life, stunning scenery, and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Tight lines Capt. Pete and crews Nuevo Vallarta fishing report Rephrase with Ginger (Ctrl+Alt+E) -
Puerto Vallarta fishing report for August 2024
August in Puerto Vallarta is a fisherman’s paradise here in Mexico with warm waters, the fish are hungry, and the action is non-stop. Let’s dive into this month of August and see it has in store for us.
Water Conditions and Temperature are always changing this time of the year. There are rains,winds but mostly sunny days with clear skies for fishing here in Puerto Vallarta.
The water temperature in August typically hovers around a balmy 82-84 degrees Fahrenheit. These warm conditions create an ideal environment for a variety of marine life, making it a prime time for fishing. The water clarity can vary, but generally, it’s good enough to spot baitfish schools and structures. There might be some days with slightly choppy conditions, but overall, the sea is usually calm and conducive to fishing. We use Terrifin App that tells us where the blue water is,water temperatures, and even thermocline breaks are in the bay and offshore.
Offshore Action in Puerto Vallarta for the month of AUGUST.
Tuna: August is tuna time in Puerto Vallarta. Yellowfin tuna are the main target, and they’re in abundance. We’ve been finding them in deeper waters, around 120-150 feet all the way down to 300 feet, where there are temperature breaks. On some days we have deployed the downriggers. Deep drops work fantastic for big tuna. Live baiting with skipjack tuna or flying fish has been producing the best results. The bite has been explosive, with some real hogs being caught.
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Sailfish: While not as prolific as tuna, sailfish are still around. We’ve been trolling for them in the deeper blue waters. The key is to cover the ground and use a variety of lures. It’s always exciting when that white sail breaks the surface!
Marlin: Black and blue marlin are making appearances, but they’re more of a bonus than a target. We’ve had a few hooked up, but the bite hasn’t been consistent. Still, every time that line screams off the reel is a rush like no other.
Inshore and Bay Fishing for some of the best fishing we have to offer in the summertime.
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Snapper: The snapper fishing has been excellent in the bay. We’ve been targeting dogtooth snapper around the islands and rocky points. Live bait and artificial lures both work well. There are some real trophies hiding in those structures!
Roosterfish: The roosterfish action has been hot and heavy. These acrobatic fighters are a blast on light tackle. We’ve been finding them around the jetties, river mouths, and sandy beaches. Topwater lures and soft plastics have been producing consistent results.
Overall, August is an incredible month to be fishing in Puerto Vallarta. The variety of species, combined with the warm water and favorable conditions, make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re targeting big game offshore or enjoying the excitement of inshore fishing, there’s something for everyone.
Tight lines, -
Puerto Vallarta Fishing Report – July 2024
Puerto Vallarta Fishing Report
Exciting news kicked off just after July 4th here in Puerto Vallarta, where we celebrated not only big festivities but also big catches. Let’s dive into the hot inshore action this month. We’ve seen an abundance of yellowtail, skipjack tuna, roosterfish, snapper, and mahi-mahi.
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Puerto Vallarta fishing report April
Puerto Vallarta fishing
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Puerto Vallarta fishing report December 2023
Welcome to the latest fishing report for December 2023 in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This month brings about significant changes, primarily marked by cooling weather and adjustments in water temperatures both in the bay and offshore. Following the favorable temperatures/fishing experience we had in November, which hovered around 83 degrees, the recent slight drop has impacted our inshore and offshore fishing strategies. See what’s coming this December in our fishing report.
In response to these changes, our approach involves adapting to new conditions. This includes switching lures, varying bait choices, and adjusting our favored fishing spots for the winter months. Despite the decrease in temperatures, it’s worth noting that the water in the Bay of Puerto Vallarta and offshore remains relatively mild. Nevertheless, these shifts influence our fishing techniques during this season. It never gets cold like other places up north to have to close for the winter season. The winter is when are just getting started for our winter fishing season. Most anglers are packing away their fishing for the season and are putting new fishing line or our reels fishing for marlin.
Let’s dive into the inshore action first. In the inshore waters, expect to encounter mahi-mahi, yellowtail, roosterfish, Spanish mackerel, snapper, and the delectable California Bonita. Trolling remains an effective method, and if we’re fortunate enough to locate schooling fish, pitch baits and different jigs become valuable tools. Some of the larger spoons work well for schooling fish. The large schools of yellowtail, typically caught on live bait, are expected to make an appearance. Roosterfish and snapper can be found in specific coves on the South Shore, where live bait or pitch baits are commonly employed. When the bait balls move into our fishing area we experience incredible fishing. Inside the Bay, water temperatures have slightly cooled to around 78 to 81 degrees, while offshore fishing enjoys a slightly warmer 80-degree water temperature. Conditions are favorable with excellent water clarity and calm winds during most trips. Some days you will see different water colors inside the bay and offshore. This is red tide which happens every year and nothing to worry about. Feel free to reach out to Captain Pete on our toll-free line if you’re planning a weekend trip and want to check the latest conditions or have any questions.
check out this hot sailfish action in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
One of the bonuses we have during the winter months is the arrival of the humpback whales that play here for several months. We often see the calves born here in our beautiful bay playing all day long. It’s a spectacular site to see if you have never been close to a 20-ton whale up close.
As winter progresses, schools of snapper may be spotted inside the Bay and just offshore. For those seeking a shorter adventure, our four or six-hour trips promise a delightful experience. Feel free to contact us via email or our toll-free line to secure your spot and check rates for all our boats.
The weather conditions contribute to fantastic water clarity, with calm seas for most of our recent trips. If you’re planning a weekend getaway and want to stay informed about the latest conditions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Captain Pete on our toll-free line. We are happy to address any questions regarding fishing, water-related sports, or upcoming weather. During the winter months, we have 99.9 % of the time perfect weather.
Now, let’s shift our focus to offshore fishing. As the water cools, larger marlin and tunas migrate further offshore, making way for the arrival of striped marlin. Tuna will still be present, often roaming around thermoclines, though not as abundantly as in the Fall. During these fishing months, it’s a must to keep your eye on the water temperatures. Our eight-hour trips target big game fish like sailfish, striped marlin, and mahi-mahi. If the action offshore is slow, we can easily switch gears and explore productive spots inside the Bay for a bountiful catch.
During the winter months, trolling with skip baits, high-speed lures, and sewn-up baits like goggle eye or mullet proves effective offshore. When we know there’s a concentration of marlin or tuna, we prefer using live bait in the 5 to 10 lbs range. The best method for offshore fishing remains live bait, live bait, and more live bait. As you can see we love to fish with live bait.
Merry Fishmas, and we hope to welcome everyone out on the water in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Tight lines,
Capt. Pete and Crews
check out the fishing report with our sister city Nuevo Vallarta fishing charters
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Puerto Vallarta fishing report November 2023
November is the highly anticipated month for fishing anglers in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and international anglers coming to enjoy the peak fishing season. This month promises a continuation of the thrilling game fish action we enjoyed in October, with the likes of Marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi making their appearances.
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Puerto Vallarta fishing report October
As the Fall fishing season unfolds in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, anglers from around the world eagerly gather to explore the bountiful waters of Banderas Bay and prepare for incredible fishing adventures along with some international fishing tournaments. October promises to be an exciting month for anglers, with a diverse range of pelagic species in abundance and ideal weather conditions. Take a look we have to offer this October.
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Puerto Vallarta fishing report September
Puerto Vallarta is known around the world as a vacation hot spot for fishing, its incredibly hot beaches, and fantastic restaurants. This is one of the main reasons we see many fishermen taking to the water and fantastic beaches all year round. We also have more return folks than any other resort place in Mexico. We are known for incredibly fun beaches, nightlife, world-class shopping, and the friendliest people in the world. We are located on Mexico’s Gold Coast, this sun-baked city is perfectly positioned right along the migratory route of world-famous pelagic fish. It’s also home to the best bay fishing in the world. Puerto Vallarta fishing is truly diverse, so no matter your angling know-how, you’ll find your perfect fishing deep-sea adventures here! With so many hotspots to fish like the bay, El Morro, Corbetena, El Banco, and the islands it can be difficult to choose the perfect fishing adventure. Not to worry we have over 50 professionals to help you pick the perfect fishing trip custom fit for you and your family. Here below, we’ve highlighted our favorite species in the area, as well as where and how you can cast a line here. Read on and get ready to discover Puerto Vallarta and the treasures that lie beneath its waters! Top Places to Fish in Puerto Vallarta. The bay has to be one of the number one places to fish here in Puerto Vallarta. The first most bay trips that can be done is 4 hrs. This is a big draw as it’s close to shore and not very expensive. There are a large number of boats that we use on our bay fishing trips. The 28 ft super panga is perfect for this kind of fishing. With a four-person max and so many different types of species to fish for you have the time of your life on this half-day fishing trip in Puerto Vallarta. El Morro has so many fishing options it’s hard to name them all here. This 8-hour deep-sea fishing adventure is for those of us who love being on the open water while having a chance to land marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna. This is a short run from the marina and you can catch just about any species of pelagic fish you can imagine. The Cortbetena has a wealth of trophy fish out there waiting almost all year round. This is the go-to fishing ground when you are looking for larger fish or that bucket list fish. For most anglers, this is a once-in-a-lifetime fishing opportunity. The tuna are thick here on this offshore fish trip. Some days marlin, sailfish, and mahi-mahi hit the bait all day long. The Cortbetena is a 10 to 12-hour trip of a lifetime for most anglers. Please plan in advance as space on these trips is limited. Banco fishing has to be one of the best angling experiences in the world. This is the fishing hot spot where most of the trophy fish come from. It’s a rare day when you don’t catch the fish of your dreams at this fishing location. This 12 to 14 hr. the trip is the best of the best most days. The last two fishing adventures can’t be beaten for catching the fish you always wanted. This is the bucket list fish-catching place. If I could I would fish here every day. Be sure and check for boat availability before coming down as this is the most sought-after trip we offer here in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. From billfish to bottom fishing Puerto Vallarta truly has it all when it comes to deep-sea fishing. We are here to help you and your family pick the perfect fishing trip whether it’s offshore or inshore. We go the extra mile to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime. I look forward to seeing everyone out there on the water having fun and catching fish.
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Puerto Vallarta fishing report July 2023
Puerto Vallarta fishing report July. The fishing report starts off with some exciting news just before July 4th. There’ll be many big celebrations here in Puerto Vallarta along with big fish to go with it. We’ll start with the hot inshore action. Fishing has produced many yellowtail, skipjack tuna, roosterfish, snapper, and mahi-mahi all over. Where have we caught all these fish? Some of the hot spots have been Nuevo Vallarta, Palo Verde, Bucerias, Los Arcos,and the middle of the bay. Most of these inshore fishing trips have been of the 6 hrs duration. Some of the shorter bay fishing trips have produced good numbers of mahi-mahi and skipjack tuna. There have many days when we caught the fish schooling in the bay and it turned into a nonstop action.
What has been the best method for fishing inshore? Here are a couple of our top performers. The Rapala coupled with some small jigs has been working incredibly well. With this set up you can Sometimes land three or four fish simultaneously. It doesn’t take long to have a boatload of fish when you are catching them three at a time. Sight casting has worked all week long and should hold strong all summer. Bring your favorite casting rig or use one of ours for some fun catching fish here in Mexico. Cut bait works extremely well around some of the buoys that have been holding mahi-mahi. Once you get one of these action-packed fish they with keep biting until you run out of fresh-cut bait. This is a fantastic way to catch and land some fast-feeding fish. Last but not least is our favorite fallback method. Live bait. In the summer months, we love to use goggle-eye. These baits work well inshore and offshore. The marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, sailfish, and yellowtail can’t resist these baits. When the sardines show up nothing works better than a couple of scoops of sardines thrown in the water to bring up all kinds of pelagic fish for live baiting. When all else fails, we use our troll with natural baits and lures. This seems to work well inshore and especially offshore. As most of our repeat clients know we love the Black Bart lures. Let’s take a look at the offshore fishing in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Deep sea fishing in Puerto Vallarta is always good in July. The waters have warmed up to some nice numbers. Offshore water temperatures are ranging from 84 degrees to 87 degrees. These temperatures are conducive for marlin, Dorado-mahi, tuna, and the fastest fish in the Pacific Ocean the sailfish. Most of these pelagic fish are caught around thermoclines and crystal clear waters we see offshore every day.
The bait movement is critical for fishing tuna and sailfish. I always say if you find the bait you will find the fish.
The best bet for offshore fishing is 8 hrs to 12 hrs. The more time on the water the better odds you have of hooking that wall hanger or fish of your dreams.
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